John Whelan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I will be particularly brief in speaking to the Title. As someone who broke ranks early on without any direction or instruction from anyone and who is still here to tell the tale, I would say that the Whip system is not as cruel as people make out. I defied Government direction and policy on the referendum and, along with other colleagues, prevailed in preserving and retaining the Seanad. In that regard I particularly welcome the Bill as it gives us an opportunity to reopen this debate in a meaningful way. I do not think we should seek consensus. This House is known for its lack of consensus and long may that thrive and live. However, all colleagues will agree that the electorate at large, at home and abroad, will not thank us if we do not at every opportunity endeavour to introduce meaningful reform. Finally, I am intrigued to see that most infamous of Irish institutions is alive and well - before we even got out of the traps we had the split.